Craving a warm, comforting meal that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further than kimchi jjigae (kimchi stew)! This classic Korean dish is traditionally made with kimchi, pork, and tofu, but this recipe takes a delicious turn by making it completely vegan. Don’t worry, it still packs a punch with the tangy, spicy kimchi and a satisfying savory broth.
This kimchi jjigae is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a cozy weekend dinner. It’s also incredibly versatile – you can customize it to your taste by adjusting the spiciness level, adding other vegetables, or even incorporating some plant-based protein alternatives.
So, grab your favorite kimchi and get ready to whip up a pot of this amazing vegan kimchi jjigae!
Ingredients:
(10-12 oz) jar of kimchi, chopped (you can adjust the amount based on your desired spice level)
Directions:
1. Prep the Kimchi: Start by chopping the kimchi into bite-sized pieces. If you prefer a milder stew, you can rinse the kimchi briefly under running water to remove some of the spiciness. However, keep in mind that rinsing also removes some of the complex flavors.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the sesame oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the garlic, ginger, and onion, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Build the Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth, gochugaru, soy sauce, vegan fish sauce (if using), and rice vinegar. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Add Kimchi and Tofu: Add the chopped kimchi and cubed firm tofu to the simmering broth. Let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with additional gochugaru, soy sauce, or rice vinegar as needed.
5. Incorporate Veggies: Add your chosen vegetables to the pot and simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until tender-crisp. If using soft tofu, add it during the last minute of cooking to prevent it from breaking down.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the hot kimchi jjigae into serving bowls, garnishing each with freshly sliced scallions. Enjoy it with a side of cooked rice for a complete and satisfying meal!
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional content per serving:
Calories: 350-400 (depending on the ingredients you use)
Note: These are just estimates, and the actual nutritional content will vary depending on the specific ingredients you use.
Conclusion:
Kimchi jjigae is a delicious and versatile Korean dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This vegan version is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a healthy and satisfying meal choice. So next time you’re looking for a warm and comforting dish, be sure to give this kimchi jjigae a try!
